Larry Mallak, a deeply experienced engineer and longtime educator, has been named the new director of the Systems Engineering Program at WPI. He comes to WPI from Western Michigan University, where he is a professor of engineering management.
"Bringing with him a wealth of expertise and a proven track record in systems engineering, Larry Mallak joins WPI at a pivotal moment, poised to drive innovation, collaboration, and excellence in engineering education and research,” said Rick Brown, department head and professor of electrical and computer engineering. “His leadership will propel WPI to new heights as Systems Engineering at WPI continues to shape the future of complex systems, technology, and management."
One of the largest graduate programs at WPI, systems engineering teaches a holistic approach to the conceptualization, design, construction, and maintenance of successful systems.
Throughout his career, Mallak has built and used innovative methods to improve organizational systems and design processes. His work on corporate ethnography is bringing new tools to balance the art and science of new product development, particularly in the medical device industry.
Prior to his university appointment, he was a healthcare systems engineer for Premier Healthcare in Charlotte, N.C., and has worked as a science reporter for National Public Radio. His work has been featured in numerous outlets, including TEDx, Engineering Management Journal, WORK, and Industrial Management.
His research interests include empathic design in research and development, organizational culture and change management systems, and workplace resilience.
Mallak earned his Ph.D. and master’s degrees in industrial and systems engineering from Virginia Tech. His bachelor’s degree is in industrial engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
A Certified Professional in Engineering Management (CPEM), Mallak has received several awards, including the Franklin Woodbury Special Service Award and the Western Michigan University Research Development Award. He is a fellow of the American Society for Engineering Management and is a Mass Media Science and Engineering Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science.
Mallak is expected to begin his new role at WPI in August.